Light Magpie
Common NameLight Magpie
Scientific NameEurrhypara hortulata
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale blue-grey, orange-brown, yellow, black
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, damp meadows, woodland edges, and other areas with herbaceous vegetation.
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe and extending into parts of Asia.
Host Plantsstinging nettle, mint, horehound, other herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various herbaceous plants, particularly nettles, and pupate in a cocoon among leaves or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the unique combination of pale blue-grey ground color with contrasting orange-brown spots on the wings, and a yellowish abdomen with black spots.
Description
This moth has distinctive pale blue-grey wings adorned with prominent orange-brown spots and patches, and a yellowish body marked with black spots.
